Lukaku speaks out amidst controversy.

Lukaku in the Belgian national team jersey.

Just one day before Napoli reunited after the FIFA Days and prepared for their match against Milan, Romelu Lukaku finally spoke out after days of silence. On his personal page, the Belgian striker sent a direct message to fans to clarify the controversies surrounding his absence.

Previously, Lukaku was expected to return to Naples to train with the team. However, he chose to stay in Belgium despite not having reached an agreement with the club. This decision was not well-received and could lead to internal disciplinary action against the player born in 1993.

Amidst public pressure, Lukaku insisted that his stay in his homeland was solely for the purpose of recovery. He stated that he had not yet reached his best physical condition and needed more time for treatment before returning to work with manager Antonio Conte.

“This has been a very difficult season for me, caught between injuries and personal setbacks. There has been a lot of information circulating about my condition lately, so I need to clarify. In the last few weeks, I haven't been feeling well physically and underwent tests while in Belgium. The results showed that I have inflammation and fluid in my hip flexor muscle, near the scar. This is the second problem I've had since returning at the beginning of November,” Lukaku shared.

The 32-year-old striker admitted that he made the decision to stay in Belgium for treatment himself. However, Lukaku emphasized that this choice was in the long-term interest of the team.

“I chose to recover in Belgium so I could help the team when they needed me. I could never turn my back on Napoli. What I want most is to be on the pitch and win with the team. But right now, I have to make sure I'm 100% fit. I haven't been able to do that lately, and that's affecting my morale,” he said.

According to Lukaku, the recovery process could take several more weeks. This means he's not ready to return in the short term, as Napoli enters a crucial stage of the season.

Nevertheless, the Belgian striker remains determined to return. He affirmed that he will overcome this difficult period and continue to contribute to Napoli and the national team when he is in top physical condition.

"This has been a difficult year, but I will get through it. I want to return to help Napoli and the national team achieve their goals. That's the only thing I'm aiming for," Lukaku emphasized.